Key events
France produced a second-half fightback to beat Italy 34-21 and maintain their 100% record in the Women’s Six Nations, setting up a potential Grand Slam decider against England.
Joanna Grisez’s early try had given France a flying start in Parma, but after French lock Madoussou Fall was sent to the sin-bin for a high tackle, Italy recovered to lead 21-12 at half-time following tries from Vittoria Vecchini, Aura Muzzo and Silvia Turani. Morgane Bourgeois also touched down for the visitors.
France rallied in the second half, going on to secure a bonus point with tries from Romane Ménager and Marine Ménager before the replacement Alexandra Chambon went over in the last minute – with Les Bleues now set for a potential winner-takes-all showdown away to England on April 26. (PA Media)
Preamble
England are three bonus-point wins out of three in this tournament and a potential Grand Slam-decider looms against France next Saturday if today’s match against Scotland in Leicester goes to form. Scotland have not beaten the Red Roses since 1999 and have never defeated them in the Six Nations – they are also depleted by injury and were beaten by Italy last time out. That explains why Scotland are, as kick-off approaches, available at 200-1 to win on one betting website.
For John Mitchell, the England head coach, this tournament is about striking a balance. He wants to try new lineups and partnerships before the Women’s Rugby World Cup this summer but establishing a settled side, and giving them a chance to fine-tune and groove those partnerships, should also be a top priority. As of course is winning more silverware.
England will expect to win, and win well, but they’ve been tested at times in this year’s tournament. Accuracy, fluency and execution will be their aim.
Kick-off: 4.45pm BST.